Could Winter Dread Be Depression?

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I have always dreaded the gray days of winter in the Midwest. I'm 66 and I have been a widow for three years. I find that I linger in bed in the mornings, always want to stay home, and look forward to very little. I have never thought of myself as depressed — rather that I'm just getting older and tired. Could I be wrong?

— Vivian, Kentucky

The changes that you describe sound a lot more like depression than those that can be attributed to getting older.

Your association between your mood and the gray days of winter is not uncommon. A significant minority of the U.S. population — perhaps 15 to 25 percent — report feeling lower moods or decreased energy levels during the shorter days of fall and winter, when there is less sun exposure. In some people, these low moods and lack of energy are diagnosed as SAD, or seasonal affective disorder.

For you, the loss of your husband, added to this seasonal pattern of mood disturbance, may have been enough to push you over your capacity to cope. You should go see your doctor and, if he or she agrees that what you’re experiencing is outside of the normal range, you can learn about your treatment options for depression. If persistent grief is a strong factor, psychotherapy may be recommended.

Some people with winter depression also benefit from treatment with bright white light, delivered via a small portable light box.

Last Updated: 2/3/2010

Dr. Michael Thase is director of the Depression Treatment and Research Program at Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in Pittsburgh.

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